‘Peeping Tom’ gets one year for stalking

Wednesday, Associate Judge Ronald D. White sentenced Michael Leppo to serve 365 days in the Phelps County Jail for stalking.

Leppo previously pled guilty to the charge November 27, 2012.

The case was investigated by Rolla Police Officers Sgt. Kenneth Moberly and Det. Hank Harper and was prosecuted by Phelps County Assistant Prosecutor Brendon Fox.

“Last summer we had a number of disturbing calls regarding a prowler or peeping tom looking in the windows of multiple women’s homes and making inappropriate comments,” said Fox. “Sgt. Moberly and Det. Harper did an excellent job investigating and ultimately apprehending Mr. Leppo.”

On the eve of trial Leppo pled guilty without a plea bargain.

Leppo has a criminal history from multiple states with similar charges.

Fox noted that he believed Leppo’s “behavior was escalating” and that putting him in jail was the only way to protect the community.

“I hope that Mr. Leppo’s victims can rest easier knowing that he is locked up for the next year,” said Fox.